Abbeyleix all set to be lit up this festive weekend

One of the longest running Christmas Markets in Laois, the Abbeyleix Christmas Market & Craft Fair, will return to its home in the Market Square, on Saturday 10th December.

Now in its 5th year, the Christmas Market – which is presented by Abbeyleix Business & Community Development Forum ( ABC) will launch the festive season and the town’s ‘Shop Local’ campaign.

Following on from the disappointment of having to cancel last year’s event due to ‘Storm Desmond’, the organisers promise a hive of activity with lots of entertainment promised. Over forty traders from all over the county and further afield will be selling a host of crafts, festive food, treats and Christmas gift ideas. The large expected audience of market-goers can also enjoy an enhanced live programme of events throughout the evening with entertainment being provided by local musicians, street entertainment, Children’s Puppet Shows, Laois School of Music, Face Painting, Abbeyleix Parish choir and the children’s Choirs from Scoil Mhuire and Abbeyleix South National School.

Among the many popular features due to make a welcome return to the market are the official switching on of the Christmas lights by Abbeyleix & District Lions Club and Partners. The hardworking committee have again pulled out all the stops to ensure the 63 trees and fountain will be dressed and ready to light up the town on the 10th. The big guy, Santa Claus himself, is also taking some time away from the North Pole to make a pre-Christmas appearance at the market.

One of the organisers and vice chairperson of ABC, Robbie Quinn, is really looking forward to this year’s event commenting, “The Abbeyleix Christmas Market is not just a market; it kicks off the Christmas experience and has become part of the Christmas tradition for many people! We have received fantastic feedback regarding the atmosphere and offering at previous markets and look forward to delighting visitors again this year . All we hope for now is the present weather conditions to continue, which is ideal for such an event and will allow Santa to land the sleigh in close proximity to the towns centre.”

He pays special tribute to the local businesses who each year raise the standard of Christmas window displays. It’s a joy for adults and families alike to spend an hour walking around town viewing each of the windows and maybe browsing the shops and cafes, many of which are remaining open late for the event.

Without their continued support there would be no Christmas Market or lights on the trees. The committee would also like to sincerely thank Abbeyleix Heritage Company and its staff, Laois Hire, Aggreko, First Ireland Spirits, People First Credit Union, Laois County Council, Abbeyleix An Garda Siochana, Local news and Media outlets, the Local CE scheme and everyone else for their generous sponsorship and time to keep the show on the road.

The Abbeyleix Christmas Market & Craft Fair 2016 takes place under the lights on 10th December 2016, opening from 4pm – 8pm. For continuous updates, check out the Abbeyleix facebook page. Interested traders should email christmasfair@abbeyleix.ie to check stall availability as booking is essential this year.

If you wish, you can contact us using any of the methods below: Leinster Express,107 Lower Main Street,LaoisEmail: editor@leinsterexpress.ieTelephone: 057 8621666

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